Costello Names Squad For British & Irish Cup Decider

Munster 'A' stepped up their preparations for Friday's British & Irish Cup final with a training session in Cork this morning. Afterwards, head coach Ian Costello named an extended squad for the clash with Cross Keys at Musgrave Park (kick-off 5.30pm).

The selected Munster 'A' panel includes six players from the RaboDirect PRO12 squad that drew with the Scarlets last Saturday, as well as Billy Holland, Denis Hurley and John Ryan who travelled over to Wales as cover.

Holland is likely to captain the Munster 'A' side for the province's second ever British & Irish Cup final appearance, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports 2 on Friday.

Holland, head coach Ian Costello and team manager Niall O'Donovan were among the crowd at the Talbot Athletic Ground for Aberavon's Principality Premiership game with Friday's opponents Cross Keys.

It proved to be a less than revealing visit however, as the Cross Keys side listed in the match programme bore no resemblance whatsoever to the one that took to the pitch.

The final scoreline - 79-25 in Aberavon's favour - suggests that none of those who played in Port Talbot will be bringing their kit bags with them to Cork this week, with the Cross Keys management keeping their leading lights wrapped up in cotton wool ahead of the final.

Costello is expected to name the Munster 'A' team for the final after training in the University of Limerick on Wednesday.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt praised the squad's 'immense character' following the 27-24 GUINNESS Series success against Australia. Meanwhile, captain Rory Best reflects on 'an emotional day' as he made his 100th appearance for his country.

Irish Rugby TV brings you a behind the scenes look at Ireland's final GUINNESS Series game against Australia. Joe Schmidt's men marked captain Rory Best's 100th cap with a superb 27-24 victory over the Wallabies.

Saturday's GUINNESS Series clash with Australia marks Michael Kearney's last game as Ireland team manager. We spoke to him about five memorable years in the role. Watch out for a couple of special cameos!

We're ready to create something legendary. A showcase for rugby nations old and new. A tournament that will grow the game globally, promote the values, spirit and ethos of rugby and will capture the world's imagination. #Ireland2023 - Liam Neeson gives voice to Ireland's bid to host Rugby World Cup 2023.

Tickets are now on sale for the first ever Women's November International Series to be held in the UCD Bowl. Kids go free with any adult tickets. Ireland will face world champions England, top ranked Canada and the Black Ferns of New Zealand.

Tournament Director Garrett Tubridy sets the scene for an exciting weekend of rugby at UCD where 16 Women's Sevens teams will battle it out at for one qualifying spot for the Rio Olympics. Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie/sevens.

Tadhg Furlong reflects on a disappointing day for Ireland against South Africa. However, he will take positives from his first Test start and be ready to build for the final match of the series in Port Elizabeth.

Paddy Jackson is preparing for Ireland's second Test against South Africa on Saturday (kick-off 5pm local time/4pm Irish time). The Ulster out-half has been checking out Ellis Park in advance of the match.